> I would like to know if someone on this list has more personal ideas
> to share?
I'm interested in human/machine interface technologies for the
disabled. One category of input devices is based on tracking eye
movements (point of gaze). This allows "people who cannot use their
hands to "push buttons" with their eyes, like a visual mouse."
See THE EYEGAZE SYSTEM at http://www.lctinc.com/doc/optic.htm.
This is an interesting product, but it's a few years old, and the
system is pricey.
With recent advances in computing power and the new all digital
1394 (Firewire) interface, significant cost reductions could be
achieved, resulting in a less expensive and more accurate system
affordable enough for mainstream use.
It's interesting to me is that most of the design work has
already been done. Perhaps existing products could be licensed
and adapted for OEM use?
See http://www.firewire.org/aboutta/products/sony.html.
It's interesting how many companies in the medical device industries
a quite content selling their products at a very high price, since
the insurance carriers pick up the bills.
Consumer PC technologies are driven prices down, but many of these
companies are reluctant to incorporate these less expensive
technologies into their products because it would decrease their
profits.
One possible GENERAL strategy would be to examine the whole industry
of medical electronics. Then, instrument by instrument, create
competing designs based on the latest microprocessors, PCs, & DSPs.
I imagine that many developing nations would appreciate having
alternatives when shopping for the hardware for new hospitals.
my inner geek
geek@ifeden.com
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